Travel essentials

Bienvenue à Paris! 🥐 In this essential guide, we'll cover all the basics you need to know before getting (literally) lost in its charming streets:

• Entry requirements (get your paperwork in order!)
• Money, language, and how to get WiFi without selling a kidney
• and much more...

Now, if you want to go beyond the typical Eiffel Tower selfie, we have detailed guides on where to sleep without hearing your neighbor snore, what to eat beyond crepes (although, they are delicious!), and how to use the metro without accidentally ending up at Disneyland. 👉 Allons-y!

🛂 Entry Requirements

Paris, the heart of France, is part of the Schengen Area. This means that 27 European countries have said 'au revoir' to internal border controls. What you need depends on your passport:

• From the European Union/Schengen Area: Your national ID card or passport is all you need. Voilà!
• From the UK, Americas, and other countries (check your specific case): Generally, you can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days). Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure date.

About the famous ETIAS (the new electronic travel authorization for Europe): relax, it's not in effect yet. It's expected around mid-2025 or later. For now, travel without this extra step!

🏥 Travel Insurance: Your Parisian Guardian Angel

A silly stumble in Montmartre or an overdose of cheese 🧀 can get expensive. Travel insurance is your best invisible friend.

• Are you a European citizen? Don't forget your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). It gives you access to necessary medical care in France as if you were a local.
• Do you live outside of Europe? It's essential: get travel insurance. It covers everything from medical expenses to cancellations, lost luggage, or that 'God forbid' moment.

🗣️ Language: Français, Oui?

The official language is French. Although Parisians have a reputation for... well, for being Parisians 🤷‍♀️, in tourist areas, many speak some English and, if you're lucky, a bit of Spanish. That said, a little effort is always appreciated.

Break the ice (and maybe get a smile) with these magic words:

• “Bonjour” = hello/good day (essential!)
• “Merci” = thank you
• “S'il vous plaît” = please
• “Excusez-moi” = excuse me

💶 Currency and Money

In Paris and all of France, the currency is the Euro (€).

• Currency exchange offices: Avoid them if you can, especially at airports and in very touristy areas. Their commissions and exchange rates are usually not your friend.
• ATMs: The most convenient way. Look for ATMs belonging to well-known banks (BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole...) to avoid extra fees from independent machines.
• Card payments: Widely accepted, even for small amounts. Perfect for not carrying too much cash!
• Frequent traveler or looking for the best exchange rate? Wise or similar services can be a great option.

📱 Internet and Connectivity

You'll need internet for Google Maps (the Paris metro is... a fun maze 🚇), translating menus, finding that 'Instagrammable' café, or following our self-guided city tours directly in the app.

• The best option: eSIM. Activate it before you travel or upon arrival, and you'll have data from the get-go. European plans usually start from €10-15. Say goodbye to hunting for SIM card shops!
• Physical SIM card: You can buy one at mobile operator stores (Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Free) or in supermarkets. You'll need your passport. Prices are similar to an eSIM, but with the extra hassle.
• Free WiFi: Look for the "Paris Wi-Fi" networks in parks, libraries, and municipal buildings. Many cafés also offer it, but you'll need to buy something (a café au lait, for example!).

🔌 Electricity and Plugs

In France, they use type E sockets (compatible with the common European types C and F), with a voltage of 230V and 50Hz.

If you're traveling from the Americas or other countries with different plugs, you'll need a universal adapter. Don't run out of battery for your photos of the illuminated Eiffel Tower!

And this is just the appetizer...

🌍 You now have the basics to start conquering Paris.

Want more? Dive into our other guides on the best time to visit, where to stay based on your budget and style, and how to get around like a true Parisian.